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Forest vine snake
A species of Twig snake, Also known as Twig snake Scientific name : Thelotornis kirtlandii Genus : Twig snake
Forest vine snake, A species of Twig snake
Also known as:
Twig snake
Scientific name: Thelotornis kirtlandii
Genus: Twig snake
Content
Description General Info
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Description
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The forest vine snake (Thelotornis kirtlandii), also known as the twig snake and bird snake, is a species of venomous snake of the family Colubridae.
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General Info
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Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
The dietary habits of forest vine snake are largely ophiophagous, signifying its primary food source is other snakes. Forest vine snake has demonstrated a predilection for colubrid snakes, consuming species including Psammophis and Elapsoidea. It employs its hemotoxic venom to immobilize prey effectively.
Appearance
Forest vine snake is a medium-sized snake with a slender body covered in smooth scales. They are predominantly green, with several dark green to black bars on their back. Their underbelly is a light cream color. Forest vine snake has a unique round head and large, wide-set eyes. They also have a long tail which tapers to a point. There are no notable visual differences between genders or age groups within this species.
Behavior
Forest vine snake is a solitary, nocturnal snake known for its unique foraging behavior. It uses tail-based luring to prey on frogs, lizards, and birds, remarkably imitating the movements of a worm to attract unsuspecting targets. Forest vine snake displays no prominent territorial behavior. Its distinct pale green coloration also aids in camouflage within its arboreal habitat.
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Scientific Classification
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Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Twig snake Species
Forest vine snake